While East London neighbourhoods like Shoreditch and Hoxton are awash with creativity, the south-east of the capital lacked in bohemian vibes. Enter Deptford, a postcode that pays homage to its past while looking to the future. Artsy bars, local markets and independent shops line the street and make living in Deptford a popular choice with renters.
This well-connected postcode provides a little slice of South East London while offering direct services in and out of the capital. A strong sense of maritime history combines with charming period properties and new builds to create the quintessential London living experience.
Deptford Market Yard
Deptford Market Yard offers a selection of independent shops like Disc World, which is a record shop and cutting house, and creative studio Lyouall Store & Lya Studio. Artisan florists also conjure up bespoke displays at The English Flower House.
So if it’s a bite to eat that you’re after, then head Dirty Apron for seasonal British grub. Or drop by Jars Bar London for a signature cocktail. Whatever your taste, there’s something to discover at Deptford Market Yard. Find it in a restored 1835 arch under the railway station.
Address: Deptford Market Yard, London, SE8 4BX
Phone: 020 7828 4777
Follow @deptfordmktyard
Marcella
As the sister restaurant to nearby Peckham’s popular Artusi, there were high hopes for Marcella — and it didn’t disappoint. The Italian restaurant uses a combination of Italian and British produce to create a mouth-watering menu with pastas, meatballs and ricciarelli.
The wine list is strictly Italian, and the interiors are simple, yet welcoming, with a bright and airy vibe and friendly staff. So, if you're living in Deptford, make sure you taste a little sample of Italy at Marcella.
Address: 165A Deptford High Street, SE8 3NU
Phone: 020 3903 6561
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @marcelladeptford
Mamas Jerk
The Jamaican street food specialists set up permanent roots in Deptford, bringing the area some of the most exquisite tastes from the Caribbean. Mama’s Jerk is a hotspot in SE8, with the BBC, Buzzfeed and the London Evening Standard all leaving stellar reviews.
The menu features favourites like jerk chicken, chips and wings, as well as fried plantain and Mama’s mango mayo. All the ingredients are locally sourced, and it’s no wonder Mama's Jerk is such a favourite with local residents.
Address: 133 Deptford High Street, Deptford, London, SE8 4NS
Phone: 020 7998 9200
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @mamasjerk
Deptford Park
Originally a market garden, today Deptford Park is part of The Deptford Parks Liveable Neighbourhood. The project is designed to improve areas for walking and cycling and includes two other parks in the SE8 postcode.
Deptford Park covers 18 acres of space and is well known for its entryway, which features traditional iron gates. The park's proximity to the River Thames makes it an ideal spot to combine a stroll around green spaces with a riverside walk.
Address: 23 Scawen Road, London, SE8 5AE
Phone: 020 8314 6000
Follow: @LewishamCouncil
Rag n’ Bone
Deptford features many independent shops, and Rag n’ Bone is leading the charge with its vintage clothing range. From silk scarves and ball dresses to evening wear and bridal wear, Rag n’ Bone has a great selection of original garments.
The shop has become a well-known clothes provider for period film clothing to film, television and theatre wardrobe departments. So head to Rag n’ Bone while you’re living in Deptford and find an outfit that stands out from the crowd.
Address: 140 Deptford High Street, London, SE8 3PQ
Phone: 020 8691 4463
Email: [email protected]
Winemakers Deptford
The Guardian referred to Winemakers’ food as “seriously assured cooking”, and the wine is pretty good too. It features red and whites from far and wide, including France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Slovenia, Australia, the USA and more.
As one of Deptford’s most popular places to eat and drink, it won’t come as a surprise to learn that Winemakers stopped taking reservations. So if you’re lucky enough to get a table, expect a young, lively crowd enjoying the bustling restaurant.
Address: 209 Deptford High Street, London SE8 3NT
Phone: 020 8305 6852
Email: [email protected]
Follow: @winemakersdeptford
The Albany
People living in Deptford go to The Albany to get their creative juices flowing. The neighbourhood arts centre is a hub where creatives, communities and creative enterprises thrive. And it's based in the heart of Deptford.
There’s a huge variety of events, which are spread across the venue’s four performance spaces. The central performance space features a 300 capacity for seated events and 500 for standing. What's more, there’s also the Deptford Lounge, which is associated with the Albany and includes a public library, computer labs and study areas.
Address: Douglas Way, Deptford, London, SE8 4AG
Phone: 020 8692 4446
Follow: @thealbanyse8
Living in Deptford
Experience living in a cutting-edge South London postcode that is full of creativity and culture. From fantastic restaurants that provide eclectic options to independent high street shops that are thriving, living in Deptford provides its own unique sense of community.
Looking to live near the heart of Deptford? Take a look at our apartments at Union Wharf.
